KUALA LUMPUR - The government will tighten controls on the smuggling of alcoholic beverages through several initiatives, starting from Jan 1 next year.
Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said one of these initiatives is to limit transshipment activities for such products to specific ports only.
"The Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security Complex in Bukit Kayu Hitam will serve as the sole exit point for the northern region. Furthermore, the import of cigarettes for the domestic market will be carried out through full container shipments," he said when tabling the second Madani Budget 2024 in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Anwar, who is also Prime Minister, added that the government was willing to reward law enforcement agencies for their continuous commitment and outstanding performance in curbing revenue losses.
"The government appreciates the commitment of law enforcement agencies such as the police, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), and the Customs Department in enhancing enforcement efforts and operations to combat revenue loss.
"The police's effectiveness in combating crime and the MACC’s efforts in investigating financial syndicates and cartels should be acknowledged.
"As an incentive, I am pleased to announce that law enforcement agencies demonstrating continuous commitment and outstanding performance will be duly rewarded," he said.